Chapter 708

Evelyn snapped back to reality and shoved Nathan away, breaking free from his embrace.

"Damn Nathan Blackwood and his constant need to show off!"

His single remark instantly evaporated all her gratitude.

She flipped her hair with practiced nonchalance. "Don't flatter yourself. Thanks."

Nathan's brows furrowed. 'Her mood swings faster than a pendulum.'

Closing the distance between them, he murmured, "That's it? Just 'thanks'? Ms. Sinclair, your gratitude is underwhelming."

'What more does he want?'

Evelyn suddenly wished she'd taken the fall. 'A bruised knee would hurt less than dealing with this infuriating man!'

Meeting his gaze with forced patience, she asked, "How exactly would you like me to thank you then?"

'The only reason I almost fell was because of you!' Not that she'd ever admit it aloud.

Their proximity made his scent unmistakable - the sharp cologne had faded, leaving only the subtle aroma of Earl Grey tea. The comforting warmth of it softened his usual icy demeanor. Before she could process this observation, Nathan's face suddenly filled her vision. His cool lips brushed her forehead with butterfly lightness before retreating.

Evelyn froze. When her senses returned, she aimed a kick at his shin, but he anticipated the move, trapping her leg between his with effortless grace. A low chuckle rumbled in his chest. "Try that again and you'll be responsible for this cripple for life." His fingers casually tucked a stray lock behind her ear.

"This is the only form of gratitude I accept."

His whisper barely reached her ears as he stepped back, putting deliberate distance between them as he rejoined Leonard Whitmore's side.

Evelyn exhaled sharply through her nose. 'The audacity! He takes liberties then acts like he's done me a favor? Where does Nathan Blackwood get his goddamn confidence?'

Bennett, observing from a discreet distance, hadn't expected Nathan's bold move. Clearly, his flirtation backfired spectacularly - Evelyn looked ready to commit murder.

The group settled in the private dining room. Evelyn maintained perfect composure, carefully avoiding eye contact with Nathan lest she actually follow through on her violent impulses. 'Patience. I'll settle this later.'

Pre-ordered dishes began arriving, though both Leonard and Nathan added selections to the menu. The atmosphere remained deceptively pleasant.

Evelyn initiated the first toast to Leonard, who responded with equal enthusiasm. She downed her wine in one impressive gulp, earning approving glances from the table.

Nathan's expression darkened imperceptibly.

After draining his glass, Leonard got straight to business. "The Sandford development has been designated a priority project, yet no company wants to touch it. Given past failures, we can't risk handing it to just anyone. President Sinclair, what makes you interested?"

When his address shifted from "Ms. Sinclair" to "President," Evelyn's smile widened.

Finally, the real conversation began.

"Precisely because others failed is why Sterling Enterprises wants it. The challenge excites us. Our reputation speaks for itself - we thrive on impossible projects." Her confident delivery made Leonard study her with new respect.

His gaze flicked to Nathan with knowing amusement. "You two sound rehearsed. No wonder people keep pushing you together. Excellence recognizes excellence, I suppose."

Evelyn's smile faltered as she turned to Nathan. "Mr. Blackwood, you're pursuing this project too?"